How Biology Influences Addiction

The Biological Basis of Addiction

One of the major misconceptions about addiction or substance abuse is that it is a choice.

Despite evidence to the contrary, many still believe that addiction is either a sign of weakness or just an individual’s lack of self-control.

However, this could not be further from the truth. Besides environmental and social factors, addiction has a basis in biology. 

Also Read: Different Therapies for Treating Addiction→

Genetics

Addiction runs in families, and there is a body of research that supports this finding.

Studies have shown that there is an 8-fold increased risk of drug addiction when an individual has relatives who suffer from drug disorders.

Gender

Gender plays an interesting role in addiction since drugs have been shown to affect men and women differently.

The two genders also seem to be drawn to different substances.

Women are more likely to abuse drugs that treat anxiety, and men are more likely to abuse alcohol and marijuana. 

Until recently, drug addiction was also more likely in men than in women. However, this has changed, and recent studies have shown both genders using drugs at the same rate.

Comorbidity

Often, people suffering from addiction also suffer from other mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety.

These illnesses increase their risk of becoming addicted to substances, like drugs and alcohol.

This combination occurs because of several reasons, two of which are mentioned below.

• One reason that those with comorbidities are likely to become addicts is that they’re more likely to take drugs to help them cope with their other disorders.
• Another reason is that many mental disorders affect the same brain circuits and neurotransmitters that various substances do.
  
  

Ethnicity

Ethnicity is a complicated aspect of addiction since it affects both biological and environmental factors.

Biologically, studies have shown that different ethnic groups may have different rates of metabolizing drugs and alcohol. 

Age

The earlier an individual starts using drugs and alcohol, the greater the risk of addiction.

Although there are a myriad of reasons for this, one of the most important reasons is the development of the adolescent brain.

Because the brain isn’t fully developed during adolescence, substances can influence the brain and have long-lasting effects on it.

Other Considerations

However, it is important to note that biological factors alone don’t result in addiction – it is a combination of biological factors, environmental factors, and social factors that affect the likelihood of an individual developing a substance use disorder.

Examples of environmental factors include:



• stressors
• trauma
• home environment
• availability of substances
• and more

Individuals should also know that just because addiction has a biological component doesn’t mean that recovery isn’t possible.

People recover from addiction every single day, and it starts with taking the first step forward.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one is dealing with substance abuse, please know that you are not alone.

Our facilities at Pathways Recovery Centers can help you combat this illness and get your life back. Contact us to learn more about our different treatment options.